Previews: CRAZY FOR YOU at Eight O'Clock Theatre

Eight O’Clock Theatre is bringing the Gershwin classic Crazy for You to the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center from May 1 through 10. The production follows Bobby Child, a New York banker sent to Deadrock, Nevada, to foreclose on a rundown theatre, only to fall for Polly Baker, the theatre owner’s daughter. What begins as a simple assignment becomes a spirited attempt to revive a forgotten town through tap, mistaken identity, and some of the most iconic songs in the American musical canon, including “I Got Rhythm,” “Embraceable You,” and “Nice Work If You Can Get It.”

Director James Grenelle has loved this musical for decades and was eager to reintroduce it to audiences. “This has always been one of my favorite shows since the mid-1990s,” he said, drawn to its comedy, dance, and unmistakable Gershwin sound.

He shaped the world of Deadrock around a single idea. “Purpose is very much a central focus of the show. Finding that purpose revives the entire town.”

That theme resonated deeply with Kayley Jewel, who plays Polly Baker and first encountered the show as a teenager. “I remember listening to Polly sing her songs and just falling in love with her voice and all of the Gershwin music,” she said.

Both director and actor describe a rehearsal room full of energy and commitment. Grenelle shared, “I am in awe of this cast, their talent, their work ethic,” noting that even during breaks, performers could be found tapping in corners or running lines.

Jewel echoed that sense of dedication, especially when it came to the show’s physical demands. “It’s really rewarding to see all the tap dancing in my living room finally pay off,” she said.

Building Polly required Jewel to embrace the character’s grit and independence. “She doesn’t care what anyone thinks of her,” she said. “She isn’t afraid of speaking her mind or getting her hands dirty.”

The production honors the show’s Broadway roots while embracing modern theatrical elements. Grenelle explained, “Much of the choreography is based on Susan Stroman’s original staging. Why change brilliance?”

Jewel is thrilled each night to perform one of the musical’s most beloved moments. “The thing I look forward to the most is singing But Not For Me,” she said. “It is one of my favorite songs of all time.”

Both Grenelle and Jewel hope audiences leave uplifted.

While Jewel promises laughter and connection, Grenelle hopes the experience lingers long after the curtain falls. “My biggest hope is that the audience finds the joy throughout the performance; to leave the theatre grinning from ear to ear and humming the music.”

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